Hello

[Helllo]

Hello

[DoninGA]

IRS website - https://www.irs.gov/individuals/additional-itin-information

What do I do when I am assigned a social security number (SSN)?

Once you receive a SSN, you must use that number for tax purposes and discontinue using your ITIN.  It is improper to use both the ITIN and the SSN assigned to the same person to file tax returns.  It is your responsibility to notify the IRS so we can combine all of your tax records under one identification number.  If you do not notify the IRS when you are assigned a SSN, you may not receive credit for all wages paid and taxes withheld which could reduce the amount of any refund due.  You can visit a local IRS office or write a letter explaining that you have now been assigned a SSN and want your tax records combined.  Include your complete name, mailing address, and ITIN along with a copy of your social security card and a copy of the CP 565, Notice of ITIN Assignment, if available.  The IRS will void the ITIN and associate all prior tax information filed under the ITIN with the SSN.  Send your letter to: 

     Internal Revenue Service 
     Austin, TX 73301-0057 

[Helllo]

Hello

[Opus 17]

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@Helllo wrote:

My nine SSN digits are looking the same as the ITIN just the first digit is different on the SSN but the rest is the same as the ITIN number. Will this be suspicious to the IRS or not? I'm worried If pops up on someonel elses SSN on IRS records. I'm confused about what to do?

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No, it's fine.  Use the SSN on your tax return.  You might be unable to e-file if the IRS doesn't match your record, you can try zero as your AGI if last year's AGI doesn't work.  Now that you have the SSN, don't file with the ITIN.

Separately, you need to send a letter to the IRS with the ITIN and the SSN, as described in the above answer.  The IRS will associate your SSN and ITIN in their computer system.

[Helllo]

Hello

[Opus 17]

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@Helllo wrote:

Thanks. Because I checked with the IRS and it says that the SSN doesn't match your name like it matches another person's name and DOB. So, If I send the IRS the SSN to request an update and rescind my ITIN, and then IRS mails a letter to both of us saying someone used your SSN to update your records. 

P.S. Is it possible that 2 people can have the same SSN?

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I don't understand your situation.

An ITIN is issued by the IRS only, by you filing a W-7 application when you file your first US tax return or meet certain other conditions.  You should have a letter from the IRS confirming your ITIN.  If you used an acceptance agent, they should still have given you the original IRS letter.

An SSN is only issued by the Social Security Administration after a long application process where you have to prove your identity and your eligibility.  You should have a letter from the Social Security Administration mailed to your home with your SSN and social security card, or you picked it up in person.  You should not rely on information given to you by a helper or immigration agent, you need the actual letter from the SSN.  You should also be able to use your SSN and your other personal information to establish an online account with the SSA.

There's no particular reason I know of that the IRS would know your SSN if you have never filed with it before.  They might know if someone else used it, but presumably it was assigned to you by the SSA and you have the official letter to prove it.  

I would start with the SSA.  Try and set up your online account.  If you can't, call them or go to their office in person and make sure you have the correct SSN.  If you confirm this is your correct SSN and no one else's, then use it on your tax return and send the letter to the IRS, enclosing copies of all your official correspondence with the SSA.  You may also want to take some steps to protect your identity in case of identity theft, such as contacting the three credit bureaus to make sure their records are straight and freeze or lock your credit reports so no one else can use your number to open accounts. 

[Helllo]

Hello

[Helllo]

Hello

[stacietaxes21]

Make note of the IRS message and be aware of these important steps with Social Security:

- locate your nearest Social Security office by visiting ssa.gov or call 800-772-1213 (long wait times)

- visit your local SSA office with your W-2, ITIN info, proof of lawful presence (I-551, I766B or U.S. passport)

- let the SSA rep know that you want to move the wages from your ITIN to your SSN (no SSN's aren't dated on the card, but the SSA office will know the date you last requested one from your numi record)

- the representative will copy your docs, probably have you sign a form and complete a '2.8' for earnings modernization.

- a notice will be generated and mailed to you from SSA regarding the update in your earnings.

The steps above are important because:

- it gives you credit on you SSN that you have worked, which helps you build your QC's (quarters of coverage) for retirement (minimum age 62!), or even can make you insured for disability in the event you cannot work for at least 12 months.

- it also builds your credits (QC's) for auxiliaries (spouse, children) to get benefits from your record as long as you have enough in your family maximum.

I hope this helps you and I wish you (and your family) much success.

God Bless!

[Opus 17]

@Helllo 

You do not re-file your tax returns.  

I have never heard about going to the social security office to get credit for past wages, but it seems to make sense.   But that just involves updating your work history at the SSA and doesn’t involve changing your tax return.